KIRUNA: Reindeer Sled Ride in the Countryside

If you’re heading to Kiruna and want to embrace the true spirit of Lapland, a Reindeer Sled Ride combined with a visit to a Sami village offers a genuine peek into the region’s indigenous culture and pristine winter landscapes. While I haven’t participated myself, this tour appears to strike a wonderful balance between adventure, cultural insight, and a hearty, traditional meal.

What I really like about this experience is how it goes beyond just the thrill of a snow-covered ride — it immerses you in Sami traditions and offers moments of quiet reflection around a fire, with stories and food. Also, the opportunity to feed reindeer by hand makes the whole experience feel personal and intimate, not just a tourist attraction. On the flip side, it’s worth considering that this activity is seasonal, only running from mid-January to March, so timing is key.

This tour is ideal if you’re after an authentic, family-friendly (with some caveats), yet relaxed adventure that offers cultural depth along with winter fun. If you appreciate learning about local cultures and enjoy a cozy atmosphere after outdoor activities, this could be just the experience you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience with Sami village visits and stories.
• Hands-on interaction with reindeer, including feeding and walking.
• Scenic reindeer sled ride through snowy forests and on frozen moors.
• Tasty, traditional meal featuring smoked and fried reindeer meat.
• Limited group size ensures a personalized experience.
• Seasonal activity, only available from mid-January to end of March.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Reindeer Sled Experience

The trip begins in central Kiruna, where you’ll be picked up and driven roughly 20 km to a Sami village. This part of the experience sets the tone, giving you a sense of stepping into a different world—one where reindeer herders live closely connected to nature. As you arrive, you’ll meet Sami guides who will teach you how to handle the reindeer and steer the sled.

Once you’re ready, you’ll have the chance to walk alongside your reindeer, getting to know your animal before harnessing it for the ride. The sled ride itself lasts around 4-5 km, but the highlight is definitely steering your own reindeer through the snow-blanketed forest and across the frozen moors. The landscape is stunning — imagine endless white, the distant mountains, and the peaceful silence only broken by the gentle sound of reindeer hooves.

The real magic is in the simplicity of the ride — there’s something calming about gliding through nature on a traditional sled, feeling fully present in the moment. As one reviewer put it, “It was very relaxed and magical to experience the snowy, lonely landscape this way,” capturing the quiet majesty of the scene.

Feeding Reindeer by Hand

After the ride, you get a chance to approach the reindeer in their corral and feed them directly from your hand. This personal touch is often highlighted as a favorite part — it’s not just about observing, but actually engaging with these gentle animals. The reindeer are semi-domesticated, so this interaction feels natural and rewarding, especially if you love animals.

The Sami Village & Stories

Following the outdoor activities, you’ll find yourself relaxing in a lávvu, the traditional Sami tent, sitting around a fire. Here, stories are shared, and you get a deeper understanding of Sami culture. The atmosphere is warm and convivial, perfect for unwinding after the outdoor adventure.

The Meal: More Than Just Food

The lunch is a standout feature, often praised for its delicious reindeer meat, prepared as smoked and fried suovas, served with bread and vegetables. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, making it accessible to different dietary needs. As one reviewer shared, “The reindeer meat was super delicious — a real highlight.” Sitting on reindeer hides in a cozy lávvu, with stories and warmth, turns the meal into a memorable cultural experience.

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Logistics and Practicalities

This tour lasts around three hours, which is a good chunk of time without feeling overwhelming. The group is limited to 8 participants, so it feels intimate and allows for personal interactions. Transportation is arranged from specific points in Kiruna, making the logistics straightforward.

The activity is available only during the snowy months — from mid-January to the end of March — when the ice on the river is thick enough for safe crossing and snow conditions are optimal for sledding.

What to Bring & Considerations

To fully enjoy the experience, pack warm clothing and comfortable shoes — layers are key in Arctic conditions. Since it involves active outdoor time, snacks and water are recommended, although the tour provides the main meal and opportunities for hot drinks around the fire.

This activity isn’t suitable for everyone — notably, children under 2, those with back problems, animal allergies, or people over 136 kg should consider other options. Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited, respecting the cultural sensitivities and safety.

The Authentic Touch: What Real Participants Say

The reviews highlight how special this experience is. One reviewer describes it as “a very relaxing and magical day, experiencing the snow-covered landscape in this way,” emphasizing the genuine, peaceful nature of the trip. Another mentions the “family atmosphere around the fire” and the “super tasty” reindeer meat with vegetables and berries, making it clear that the food alone is worth the trip.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after an authentic, hands-on experience that combines outdoor adventure with cultural learning, this tour offers good value. It’s particularly suited to those who enjoy nature, animals, and engaging stories, and who appreciate good, hearty local food. The small-group setting ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the personal interactions make the experience memorable.

However, keep in mind that this is a seasonal activity meant for winter months, and it involves some physical activity outdoors — so dress accordingly. For families with children over two, it’s generally suitable, but very young kids or those sensitive to cold might need extra prep.

All in all, it’s an experience that’s likely to leave you with a sense of connection to Sami culture and the Arctic landscape — perfect for a genuine winter adventure in Kiruna.

FAQs

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years old can typically join, but keep in mind the outdoor conditions and the need for warm clothing. Always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress warmly with layers, including waterproof outerwear, gloves, and a hat. Comfortable shoes that handle snow are recommended.

Can I feed the reindeer?
Absolutely. One of the highlights is getting close enough to feed the reindeer by hand, which many visitors find memorable.

How long is the reindeer sled ride?
The ride covers about 4-5 km through snowy forests and on frozen moors, offering a peaceful, scenic experience.

What is included in the meal?
You’ll enjoy smoked and fried reindeer meat (suovas), bread, and vegetables, with vegetarian and vegan options available.

Is the activity available outside winter?
No, it takes place only from mid-January to the end of March when the ice and snow conditions are suitable.

If you’re craving an experience that combines outdoor winter fun with cultural insight and good food, this reindeer sled ride in Kiruna sounds like just the ticket. It’s a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and learn about Sami traditions — memories that might just stay with you long after the snow melts.

You can check availability for your dates here: